Cannabis Addiction
Cannabis addiction is treatable.
Cannabis, also known as marijuana, is a psychoactive product of the plant cannabis sativa and is the most commonly used drug in the UK. The major biologically active chemical compound in cannabis is tetrahydrocannabinol, commonly referred to as THC.
Common varieties and streets names include:
- Dope
- Grass
- Puff
- Green
- Blow
- Draw
- Hash
- Smoke
- Ganja
- Pot
- Skunk
- Wacky Backy
Cannabis has psychoactive and physiological effects when consumed, usually by smoking or ingestion; these effects can last up to 3 hours. The minimum amount of THC required to have a perceptible psychoactive effect is about 10 micrograms per kilogram of body weight. In practical terms, this is a varying amount and is dependent upon the potency of the strand.
No physical dependence is evident with cannabis use, however psychological dependency has been reported. Additionally, no physical withdrawal symptoms have been officially reported, but heavy users may experience restlessness, depression and physical and psychological discomfort.
Long-term use can result in respiratory problems associated with smoking and can exacerbate certain medical conditions such as asthma. Very heavy use can result in psychological disturbance and there is increasing evidence linking long-term heavy use with mental health disorders such as schizophrenia.
Side effects of regular use can include:
- Anxiety
- Panic attacks
- Suspciousness/paranoia
- Increased blood pressure
- Decreased sperm count in men
- Suppression of ovulation in women
- Lack of motivation
- Consistent tiredness
Although cannabis has no physically addictive properties, regular and prolonged use of the drug can cause significant life issues like other drugs. Cannabis, due to its popularity and availability is often considered not to be detrimental to the individual, this is a misconception. As with alcohol and other commonly consumed drugs, cannabis can cause negative downward spirals in your quality of life – you can stop smoking cannabis and get your life back on track by entering an inpatient treatment programme based either in the UK and abroad.
